A 15th-minute strike from Sergio Aguero, who hobbled off injured before half-time, gave the visitors the lead before Yaya Toure made it two from the penalty spot after the break.

Edin Dzeko struck a third just moments later, and though Spurs substitute Etienne Capoue managed to claw one back for the North Londoners, further strikes from Stevan Jovetic and Vincent Kompany capped a miserable night for Tim Sherwood's side.

Some big decisions admittedly went City's way, such as a dubious offside flag that ruled out what would have been a Tottenham equaliser from Michael Dawson.

Danny Rose was also unlucky to receive a red card for the Sky Blues' penalty, but Manuel Pellegrini's men were irresistible at times and could have scored even more on the night.